Cooper award winner makes physics fun
Dr.
Kent Scheller, associate professor of physics, is the
2007-2008 H. Lee Cooper Core Curriculum Teaching Award winner.
Scheller received ringing endorsements from faculty and students
alike who cite his dynamic demonstrations that engage students’
imaginations and encourage them to apply physics to their daily
lives.
Scheller teaches the core classes Introduction to the Physical
Sciences, General Physics I and II, and Intermediate Physics I
and II. His demonstrations, from blowing up a trash can to
holding a concrete block on his chest while someone breaks it
with a hammer, have become student favorites.
Dr. Scott Gordon, dean of the Pott College of Science and
Engineering, said, “While students across the country may see
physics as a difficult course and one to avoid, Dr. Scheller’s
Physics 101 class typically has well over 100 students enrolled
for each offering. He has developed a reputation for providing
students with a solid course by providing a hands-on and fun
approach to teaching and learning.”
In anonymous course evaluations, Scheller’s students write
glowing reviews. For example:
“I just want to tell you that I think you’re a great professor.
I catch myself applying physics to everyday life now.”
“I have never been good at science and never liked it. Thanks
for making it so fun and enjoyable, but at the same time helping
us learn.”
“Great job of applying physics to our everyday lives. I’ve
learned more this way than memorizing formulas and equations.”
His colleagues estimate that Scheller spends several additional
office hours per week going over lectures and homework with
students. His concern for the promotion of science and
scientific thought extends throughout the University. He
produced a video entitled “A History of Scientific Thought,”
available in Rice Library and used in Humanities courses.
Dr. Thomas Pickett, professor of physics, said, “Kent
understands the importance of scientific literacy in the modern
world, whether the student is destined for a career in
science/technology or otherwise, and works hard to create some
scientific competence as well as scientific appreciation in his
students.”
Scheller holds a Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame. He
joined USI in 1999.
The award includes a
generous stipend, a plaque, and additional monies for travel and
related faculty development.
Focusing exclusively on teaching, the Cooper award honors a USI
faculty member whose work in University Core courses has been
especially creative and successful in furthering UCC goals.
As this year’s winner, Scheller will deliver a presentation to
the University community during the 2007-08 academic year.
Details will be released at a later date.
The Cooper award is named in honor of H. Lee Cooper, long-time
friend and supporter of USI and made possible by private gifts.
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